Scenic Drives

Take in the breathtaking beauty of Lincoln National Forest from the comfort of your vehicle. With winding mountain roads, sweeping desert vistas, and historic byways, the forest offers unforgettable scenic drives that showcase New Mexico’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re looking for a short, leisurely drive or a full-day adventure, there’s a route for every traveler.

Scenic Drives by District

Sacramento Ranger District (Near Cloudcroft & Alamogordo)

Sunspot Scenic Byway (NM 6563) – A 15-mile paved route from Cloudcroft to the Sunspot Solar Observatory, offering spectacular mountain views.
Fresnal Canyon Road (FR 162C) – A winding gravel road with panoramic overlooks of the Tularosa Basin and White Sands National Park.
Sacramento Canyon Road (FR 64) – A beautiful backroad through high-altitude meadows and dense pine forests.

Smokey Bear Ranger District (Near Ruidoso & Capitan)

Billy the Kid Scenic Byway – A historically rich route passing through Ruidoso, Lincoln, and Fort Stanton, featuring ties to the Wild West.
Monjeau Lookout Road (FR 117) – A rugged drive to a historic stone lookout tower with 360-degree mountain views.
Bonito Lake Road (FR 107) – A peaceful, tree-lined drive leading to the Bonito Creek area, perfect for a relaxing day trip.

Guadalupe Ranger District (Near Carlsbad & Queen)

Guadalupe Ridge Trail Scenic Route – A remote, high-desert drive with breathtaking views of Carlsbad Caverns and Guadalupe Mountains National Park.
Sitting Bull Falls Road – A paved drive through the rugged canyonlands, ending at a scenic waterfall and picnic area.
Dark Canyon Road (FR 69) – A secluded desert route with dramatic rock formations and stunning sunset views.

Know Before You Go

Road Conditions – Some forest roads are unpaved and require high-clearance or 4WD vehicles. Check conditions before heading out.
Seasonal Access – High-elevation roads may be closed in winter due to snow, while desert roads can become impassable after heavy rain.
Drive Safely – Watch for wildlife, cyclists, and hikers, and always follow posted speed limits.
Fuel Up – Gas stations are limited in remote areas, so ensure you have plenty of fuel.

Start Your Scenic Journey

Whether you’re exploring towering pine forests, rugged desert canyons, or historic frontier towns, Lincoln National Forest offers incredible scenic drives for all types of adventurers.

For maps, road conditions, and seasonal updates click the links provided.